On our various social network sites we have noted a fascination with colored diamonds or what is referred to as “fancy” colored diamonds. This is certainly understandable in that they are truly the most brilliant and exotic gem that comes from the earth! Like all diamonds they were formed miles beneath the earth’s surface over a billion years ago, these diamonds are carried in kimberlite stones during volcanic eruptions to the surface. These miracles of nature are estimated to occur in only one in ten thousand diamonds!
Daniel K Yellow Diamond "Central Park" Bracelet
Colorless diamonds are 100% carbon. Minute amounts of trace elements must interact with the carbon atoms to permanently alter the color, thus a rare occurrence that results in a naturally colored diamond. Fancy colored diamonds can be found in almost every color of the rainbow to include red, green purple, orange, yellow, brown, pink and blue. While colorless diamonds decrease in value as color becomes apparent, fancy colored diamonds become more valuable with saturation of color. In addition to the spectral hue, the purity and strength of color also affect rarity and thus value.
Pamela Froman Colored Diamond Rings
Fancy yellow diamonds range from light to vivid in color depending on the saturation of nitrogen. The most saturated and largest yellow diamonds have been primarily discovered in South Africa. In recent years, yellow diamonds have become increasing popular not only for fashion, but in engagement rings and wedding bands.
Henri Daussi Fancy Yellow Diamond Ring
Fancy pink diamonds come in a variety of colors ranging from bubblegum pink to coral. They can also be brownish or purplish pink. Most are mined in Australia. Intense pink diamonds are so rare that a year’s worth of mined diamonds can fit in the palm of your hand.
McCaskill & Company Signature Collection Pink Diamond Earrings
Fancy blue diamonds derive their color from boron impurities and range in hue from very light shades to steel blue. The only notable mine for blue diamonds is the Cullinan mine in South Africa. Without question, the Hope Diamond is the most famous of all the natural fancy blues weighing 45 carats.
Louis Glick Fancy Colored Diamonds
Fancy green diamonds are extremely rare and only a handful are introduced into the market each year. With color ranging from yellowish-green to gray green, the most valued are the pure green. The green color is derived from being near radioactive sources during formation. This process takes at least a million years to occur.
At McCaskill & Company we pride ourselves in being able to offer fancy colored diamonds from a variety of our designer to include Oscar Heyman, Pamela Froman, Louis Glick, Henri Daussi and of course, our own Signature Collection. Hope you have a chance to drop by and enjoy!
